News

Body Samantha Smith is currently serving on the Van City Council having been appointed in July 2024 to fill the unexpired term of former councilman Linzy Neal. Before serving on the council, Smith served on the City of Van’s Planning and Zoning Board.

Body “My name is Ernie Burns, and I am excited to say that I am running to fill the unexpired term of Mayor for the City of Van,” said Burns. “I have served the citizens of Van in an official capacity since 2016.

Body EDITOR’S NOTE: The News did not receive questionnaire responses and photos from mayoral candidate Don Smith; and unopposed city council candidates Bill Dwyer (Place 3) and Mark Heatwole (Place 4). The News did not receive a photo from Michael Jarrett.

Body EDITOR’S NOTE: The News did not receive questionnaire responses and photos from school board candidates Michael Martin and Jeremy Gunnels. .

Body “I am Kathy Smith, and I am seeking the position of mayor on the Grand Saline City Council,” said Smith. “Having been born and raised in Grand Saline, I proudly attended Grand Saline High School.

Body Melissa Jose, 29, is a graduate of Grand Saline High School and Tyler Junior College. She is currently employed at Salt Lickers in Grand Saline.

Body Kobe Blue, 49, and his wife, Brittany, have three children. He is a graduate of Grand Saline High School and is employed in maintenance for the Grand Saline Housing Authority.

Body John C. Haverly, 66, and his wife, Peggy, have three children: John P.

Body Elijah Browning, 37, and his wife, Amy, have two children: Raynee and Ryker. Browning, a high school graduate, works as a sales representative for PR Equipment.

Body Molly Garrett, 50, and her husband, Jeffrey, have one child, Landon.